Standard, Semi-Hourglass or Hourglass Faja: How to Choose by Body Shape

Two women can have exactly the same waist measurement and still need different fajas. The reason is the difference between the waist and the hips. A faja cut for straight proportions will gap at the waist or squeeze the hips on a curvy body, and the other way round. That is why many Colombian fajas, including the ones we carry, come in three fits: standard, semi-hourglass and hourglass. Here is how to find yours.

Step 1: measure your waist and hips

Measure your waist at the narrowest point above the belly button and your hips at the fullest part of your buttocks. Our faja size guide shows exactly how. Then look at the difference between the two numbers.

Step 2: find your fit

Standard fit

For a body where the waist, hips and bust are fairly balanced, or where the tummy is the main focus. Standard fajas give even compression from top to bottom, like the mid-thigh lycra faja. See all standard fit fajas.

Semi-hourglass fit

For a defined waist with moderately fuller hips. The cut gives more room at the hips and a little more shaping at the waist, without the stronger curve of the hourglass line. Popular options include the powernet faja with boning. See all semi-hourglass fajas.

Hourglass fit

For a small waist with wide, full hips. The hourglass line is cut to hug the waist while leaving space for the hips and buttocks, so the faja does not ride up or flatten your curves.

• Hourglass mid-thigh powernet faja: powernet with cold-touch nylon and boning for waist definition.
• Hourglass faja with boning: strong control on back, waist, abdomen, hips and legs.
• Hourglass faja for daily use: four front adjustment levels, made for everyday wear.

Why boning matters

Many hourglass and semi-hourglass fajas have flexible boning in the waist and back. The boning keeps the fabric straight so it does not roll or fold when you sit or bend, which is the most common complaint with curvy bodies. It also adds definition at the waist.

Signs you are in the wrong fit

• The faja fits your hips but gaps or wrinkles at the waist: try a more curved fit.
• The waist fits but the legs or hips feel too tight and the faja rides up: try a more curved fit or check the size.
• The faja flattens your buttocks: choose a style with a lifting or open buttock area.

Frequently asked questions

Can I wear an hourglass faja after surgery?

Some hourglass styles are suitable once your surgeon clears you for stage 2 or stage 3. Check our stage 1, 2 and 3 faja guide and ask your surgeon.

Is hourglass the same as a BBL faja?

Not exactly. Hourglass describes the cut for your body shape. A BBL faja is designed to protect the buttocks after fat transfer. See our BBL faja guide for the difference.

Is there an hourglass bodysuit for everyday wear?

Yes. If you want a lighter piece for daily life, read our shapewear bodysuit guide, which covers everyday styles cut for curvy bodies.

How do I know which fit I am if I am unsure?

Send us your waist and hip measurements on WhatsApp and we will suggest the right fit and size before you order.

Curvy and tired of fajas that do not fit? Browse our hourglass fajas. Free next-day delivery across the UAE and cash on delivery.